And in the wake of the Brussels and Paris atrocities, Manuel Valls was told his country had the full support of Northern Ireland supporters who “know all too well the impact terrorism, and the threat of terrorism, can have on society”.

DUP MEP Diane Dodds met with Mr Valls in Strasbourg.

And afterwards she said: “We all watched in horror as the Paris attacks unfolded on our screens and the loss of life inflicted on the nation of France at the hands of ISIS terrorists.

“Sadly in our own Province we know all too well the impact terrorism, and the threat of terrorism, can have on society. Yet we also know that in the end terrorism fails because those committed to democracy will not bow to the gun or bomb.

“Faced with their own brand of sectarian murderers, my message to the French Prime Minister was one of hope that they too will see democracy win the day... I know from speaking to many people across Northern Ireland that the excitement of travelling to Euro 2016 will not be tapered by the high terrorist threat in France, but I did urge the Prime Minister to do all within his power to ensure the safety of those travelling to France for Euro 2016.”

Last month’s terror attacks in Brussels sparked fears Euro 2016 matches could be played behind closed doors this summer.

UEFA responded by reassuring supporters their safety was paramount in their plans.

A spokesman said: “We will continue their joint work and will regularly monitor the level of risk for the tournament and their respective organisational plans.

“For over three years now, EURO 2016 SAS has been working closely with the relevant authorities to develop the most appropriate mechanisms in order to guarantee a safe and secure tournament and all necessary measures are being taken to ensure that is the case for all involved.”